Admit it, you throw on any old pair of golf socks when you are picking your outfit for the next round of golf. Well that should not be the case because brands specifically design socks to keep your feet dry, warm and above everything else, comfortable when you're playing. The best golf shoes will of course help with these things too but you should be thinking about your golf socks too!
Thankfully, many brands make excellent models and to help you out we have tested models and set out some of the best golf socks that money can buy in the list below. Also if you are in the market for any other golf apparel, check out some of our other guides on the best golf tops, best golf polos or best golf pants. Whatever you are after, we've got you covered. But without further ado, let's check out our top picks for the best golf socks.
Best Golf Socks
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+ Noticeably comfortable
+ Technically advanced
+ Good color choice
- Can be difficult to get on sometimes
A relatively unknown brand in the golfing world, Swiftwick socks provide a critical performance link between you and your technical footwear. These Flite XT's have several excellent features as proof of this. Such as the GripDry fibre which has tiny micro treads in the heel and forefoot to help your feet grip into your golf shoes which is ideal for the faster movements of the golf swing. The elastic fabric on the heel provide targeted support and helps hug your feet for a comfortable fit. We recently tested these over several rounds and they performed excellently, not to mention they are easy to wash too.
+ Well respected brand recognized for top-notch golf gear
+ Crew and ankle versions available
- Quite a long sock
FootJoy has once again made some quality golf socks here. Similar to the ProDry socks, this offering features heel and ball cushioning supports for your feet. That makes these sports socks a great trainer liner to wear whether you're playing golf or are heading out on a run.
The DrySof Moisture Control Technology also helps to keep your feet dry, while the breathable mesh inserts also aid moisture wicking. Pair them up with one of the brands fantastic golf shoes or one of their hard wearing golf gloves to complete the FootJoy look.
+ Ideal for winter golf
+ Lots of sizes
- Can feel quite thick
Comfort is key to any game of golf, that's why Under Armour has developed these socks which are designed to give you the smoothest ride possible. Made from HeatGear fabric, they have a comfortable fit, moisture management and also the anti-odor technology, which is a huge bonus as nobody likes smelly golf shoes. We also liked the zonal cushioning and arch support on these shoes, making them a great option for senior golfers too. For more Under Armour clothing, check out our guides to the best golf shirts and best golf base layers, which both feature several offerings from this renowned sports brand.
+ Different length designs
+ Versatile
- Plain design
Another model that we use not just for golf but other activities too, the adidas Basic Crew 2.0 comes in ankle, mid or longer designs. They are both soft and durable and are made from a combination of fabrics, designed to give a comfortable fit for many rounds.
We found the moisture management in this sock to be solid too, meaning they're an excellent option to have on a hot day on the course. Pair these socks up with one of the best adidas golf shoes for maximum comfort, grip and support to the ground to improve your game.
+ Three color options
+ Extra cushioning under heel/toe
- Could be softer
Play golf with more comfort and less distraction with these quality socks. Moisture-wicking, stretchy, comfortable, plus there is added cushioning around the critical zones such as the heel and toe.
Basically they perform in every way you want them to on the course and provide you with excellent traction against the sole of your shoe. Puma are excellent when it comes to designing elite sports wear and the quality that goes into each of their products really sets them apart as one of the best brands in the business.
+ Vibrant colors and design
+ Excellent comfort
- Design is not for every golfer
G/Fore regularly dazzle us with vibrant products, with some of the best G/Fore golf shoes being the most colorful and eye-catching shoes on the market. And their work in the apparel market is equally as impressive, with some of their garments being our favorite polos, midlayers and jackets.
These mixed stripe crew socks being the most vibrant and colorful socks on this list. But as well as style, these are a very comfortable pair of socks to wear, thanks to their silky nylon microfibre, which creates a very soft feel on your feet.
+ Very comfortable
+ Effective at managing moisture
- Arguably too long
A great insulating golf sock constructed using Mizuno’s revolutionary thermal fabric, the Mizuno breath sock absorbs moisture released by the body and converts it into heat to keep your feet warm. While Mizuno are known for producing some of the best golf irons on the market, their apparel certainly matches up to that reputation! These socks are a perfect example of that and will keep your feet warm through the winter months.
+ Good for other sports
+ Often comes in multi-packs
- Lacks a lot of style
Nike is a brand that has made some excellent football and basketball socks and there has been an attempt here to cross over some of the same technologies. The sweat-wicking fabric in these socks incorporates Nike's patented Dri-FIT technology which helps the sock stay in place. Meanwhile, it's ribbed design feels great up the ankle and keeps your foot well supported inside your shoe. There is also breathability on offer here too, with the knit fabric aerating your feet well, particularly on warmer days. Twin them with a pair of the best Nike golf shoes and you'll certainly look the part on the golf course.
How we test golf socks
When it comes to golf apparel, we take the testing process very seriously. Whether we are sent a product or buy it ourselves, we put everything through its paces to ensure we can provide thorough and reliable advice on each product. We should acknowledge that every member of the Golf Monthly team is an avid golfer and as such, knows what does and doesn't make for a good piece of golf equipment.
As far as our methodology goes, we review all golf socks properly, which means we have used each pair across multiple rounds and in practice to assess every aspect of its performance. For example, if a manufacturer claims to have produced the most durable sock in golf, we will put that claim to the test to see whether the sock does last for multiple rounds of golf. Specifically for golf socks, we test each one to assess how its design features can benefit you on the course and we test in different conditions. This comprehensive testing style is not just exclusive to golf socks as we test with the same level of thoroughness across all gear categories.
How to choose golf socks
While you might think picking up a pair of golf socks isn't that big of a deal, but if you're not paying attention to what each sock can offer you, you might be missing out on some performance and comfort enhancing features. For that reason, we've set out a list of considerations below that you need to bear in mind that'll help you buy the correct pair of socks for your needs as a golfer.
Length
First things first, how long do you want your golf socks to be? Are you a longer sock kind of person, or just want some kind of ankle sock to wear during the summer months? Knowing this will narrow down your search immediately. If you're playing golf regularly in hotter climates you should also think about the perils of getting a golfer's tan! If you're one of these people, then maybe go for a trainer liner or a low ankle sock.
Fabric
Have a think about what fabric you would like the socks to be made from. For example, there are loads of materials used these days such as polyester, spandex, lycra, nylon and cotton. Often socks are made with a combination of these so have a think about what material you like, and also when you would be wearing these socks because you don't want to get spandex ones for the winter months and warm cotton ones for summer.
Technology
Most brands make socks that offer technology to help in a variety of ways. For example, many help with moisture management and sweat wicking which keeps the feet dry and comfortable. Some also offer padding for key areas of the foot as well. Of course, several of the models above have been designed with all of these facets in mind.
Design
Striped? Bright colors? Understated? Whatever kind of design you are after, most brands offer various models for anyone to use. The sheer array of socks we picked out above shows this clearly. Whatever fashion sense you have, there will be a sock polo for you.
Price
Of course the price is always something people should think about. There is great value to be had with the models above but there are also more premium models for those wanting to spend a little more. Put simply, there is something for everyone.
FAQs
What socks are best for golf?
There are lots of great socks on the market right now from top-notch brands like adidas, Nike, FootJoy and more. Regarding the best, this will differ for every person and what they like from a golf sock, especially in terms of length, color and material.
Do I need to wear long socks when I play golf?
That depends on the type of course you're playing at. There are some courses that will not allow players to wear ankle socks with their shorts, they tend to be the more traditional courses. Yet, if you're playing socially, many courses across the UK and US are fine with players wearing ankle socks.
How are golf socks different?
Golf socks tend to be a little different than normal socks because of how they have to perform for golfers. Many models come with some degree of breathability to help golfers not sweat too much in golf shoes, and they usually tend to be padded in key areas around the forefoot, and heel. Golf socks tend to be very soft and aim to be as comfortable as possible as well because golfers spend so much time walking in them throughout the round.
For more golf apparel buying advice, check out our guides on the best golf hoodies, best golf mid layers, or best golf vests.
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